Staff Reporter
In a move aimed at promoting inclusive healthcare, 32 student nurses at Kwekwe General Hospital (KKGH) have completed a basic sign language training course facilitated by the Sunrise Sign Language Academy.
The training, led by Academy Founder Douglas Mapeta, was conducted at the KKGH School of Nursing and Midwifery to empower future nurses with communication skills necessary to serve patients with hearing impairments.
One of the graduating student nurses said the training was crucial in ensuring that health professionals can cater to all members of the community.
“We often attend to people who have hearing disabilities, and the only way to communicate effectively with them is through sign language. As professionals, we must be able to communicate with all patients. This is how we support the government’s inclusive approach,” the student said.
Mapeta underscored the importance of sign language in healthcare delivery, saying it enhances accessibility and inclusivity.
“It is essential that everyone in the health sector can provide quality care regardless of communication barriers. As they learn the language, they will better understand and serve the needs of the deaf community,” he said.
He also commended the Ministry of Health and Child Care for promoting sign language training among health personnel, describing the initiative as aligned with the Presidential mantra of “leaving no one and no place behind.”
“We are training student nurses to provide a holistic approach to healthcare for everyone,” added Mapeta.
Tutor-in-Charge at the KKGH School of Nursing and Midwifery, Ben Chaparapata, hailed the program as a milestone in improving service delivery and promoting inclusivity.
“Previously, only a few nurses were trained in sign language. Now we have empowered an entire class, including a tutor. This is a great step toward improving healthcare services. Everyone deserves quality healthcare, including those with hearing impairments,” Chaparapata said.
He added that this was the third group to complete the training, with all 32 participants successfully graduating.
A female tutor from the nursing school was also recognized for achieving the highest certification level in sign language during the program.
The training supports the national drive toward disability-friendly services and universal access to healthcare. Sunrise Sign Language Academy continues to roll out similar programs countrywide, targeting healthcare workers, public servants, and educators.
